Hershey Park, renowned for its thrilling roller coasters, offers a range of rides with varying speeds and intensities. From high-speed launches to gravity-defying drops, the park’s attractions cater to adrenaline junkies and casual riders alike. This comprehensive analysis delves into the speeds of Hershey Park’s most popular rides, comparing their velocities, acceleration, and unique features that contribute to their exhilarating experiences.
What Are the Fastest Rides at Hershey Park?
When it comes to sheer velocity, several rides at Hershey Park stand out:
- Storm Runner: This launch coaster takes the crown for speed, catapulting riders from 0 to 72 mph in a mere 2 seconds.
- Skyrush: While its exact top speed isn’t disclosed, Skyrush is known for its relentless pace and intense airtime moments.
- Fahrenheit: Featuring a beyond-vertical drop, Fahrenheit delivers high-speed thrills throughout its course.
- Candymonium: As a hypercoaster, Candymonium reaches impressive speeds, offering a smooth yet exhilarating ride.
How Does Storm Runner Compare to Other Launch Coasters?
Storm Runner stands out not just within Hershey Park, but among launch coasters worldwide:
- Launch Mechanism: Hydraulic launch system
- Acceleration: 0 to 72 mph in 2 seconds
- Top Speed: 72 mph
- Unique Features:
- Top hat element with significant airtime
- Flying snake dive
- Compact layout maximizing speed and thrills
Compared to other launch coasters, Storm Runner’s acceleration is particularly impressive, rivaling some of the fastest launches in the world.
What Makes Skyrush a Speed Demon Without a Launch?
While Skyrush doesn’t feature a launch system, it’s renowned for its speed and intensity:
- First Drop: A steep, nearly vertical descent that builds tremendous speed
- Airtime Hills: Multiple ejector airtime moments that feel faster due to the intense negative G-forces
- Wing Seats: Outer seats that hang over the track, enhancing the sensation of speed
- Restraint System: Controversial lap bar that contributes to the ride’s intense feel
The combination of these elements creates a perception of relentless speed throughout the entire ride experience.
How Does Fahrenheit’s Vertical Lift Affect Its Speed?
Fahrenheit’s unique design contributes to its speed profile:
- Vertical Lift: 90-degree ascent that builds anticipation
- Beyond Vertical Drop: 97-degree first drop that generates high speeds
- Inversions: High-speed elements including a Norwegian loop and double corkscrews
- Compact Layout: Tightly packed elements maintain speed throughout the ride
The vertical lift, while not directly contributing to speed, sets up the beyond-vertical drop that initiates the high-velocity portions of the ride.
What Speed Features Make Candymonium a Smooth Thrill?
As Hershey Park’s newest hypercoaster, Candymonium balances speed with comfort:
- Height: 210 feet tall, allowing for significant speed build-up
- First Drop: Steep descent that reaches high velocities
- Airtime Hills: Multiple floater airtime moments that feel fast yet smooth
- Banking Turns: High-speed turns that maintain velocity while adding lateral forces
- Track Design: Modern track engineering for a glass-smooth ride at high speeds
While the exact top speed isn’t publicized, Candymonium’s layout is designed to maintain high speeds throughout its course.
How Do Hershey Park Ride Speeds Compare in a Chart?
| Ride Name | Top Speed | Launch/First Drop | Notable Speed Features |
|---|---|---|---|
| Storm Runner | 72 mph | 0-72 mph in 2s | Hydraulic launch, top hat element |
| Skyrush | N/A | Steep first drop | Intense airtime, wing seats |
| Fahrenheit | N/A | 97-degree drop | Vertical lift, high-speed inversions |
| Candymonium | N/A | 210-foot drop | Floater airtime hills, high-speed turns |
What Factors Influence Perceived Speed on Rides?
Several elements contribute to how fast a ride feels, beyond just its actual velocity:
- G-Forces: Positive and negative G-forces can make a ride feel faster or slower
- Ride Position: Sitting in the front vs. back can alter speed perception
- Track Layout: Tight turns and quick transitions can increase the sensation of speed
- Height: Rides at greater heights often feel faster due to the visual perspective
- Restraints: The type and tightness of restraints can affect how exposed riders feel to speed
Are There Speed Differences Between Day and Night Rides?
While the actual speeds remain constant, the perception can change:
- Day Rides:
- Better visibility of surroundings
- Clearer perception of height and distance
- Night Rides:
- Limited visibility can increase the sense of speed
- Lighting effects can enhance the thrill factor
- Cooler temperatures may affect ride performance slightly
Many enthusiasts report that night rides, especially on coasters like Skyrush and Storm Runner, feel faster and more intense.
How Do Weather Conditions Affect Ride Speeds?
Weather can have subtle impacts on ride performance:
- Temperature: Colder weather can sometimes make coasters run slightly faster due to reduced friction
- Rain: Light rain may increase speed on some sections, but heavy rain can slow rides down
- Wind: Strong headwinds can marginally reduce speeds on exposed sections of rides
Hershey Park maintains strict safety protocols, adjusting operations as needed for weather conditions.
What Safety Measures Are in Place for High-Speed Rides?
Hershey Park prioritizes safety across all its attractions, with additional measures for high-speed rides:
- Regular Inspections: Daily checks and more comprehensive periodic inspections
- Restraint Systems: Designed and tested for high-speed forces
- Rider Requirements: Height and health restrictions to ensure rider safety
- Trained Operators: Staff specially trained to operate high-speed attractions
- Emergency Procedures: Protocols in place for any potential issues during operation
These measures ensure that guests can enjoy the thrills of high-speed rides with confidence in their safety.
How Can Riders Prepare for High-Speed Experiences?
To fully enjoy Hershey Park’s fastest rides:
- Stay Hydrated: High-speed rides can be physically demanding
- Secure Loose Items: Glasses, hats, and other items should be properly secured or left with a non-rider
- Follow Instructions: Pay close attention to ride operators’ safety briefings
- Know Your Limits: Start with less intense rides if you’re unsure about high speeds
- Use Provided Storage: Utilize lockers for items that can’t be taken on rides
By following these tips, riders can maximize their enjoyment of Hershey Park’s thrilling high-speed attractions.